New Delhi: Renowned football coach Arsene Wenger has emphasized the importance of collaboration between FIFA and AIFF for the success of a central academy in India. Wenger is set to visit the country next month as part of the initiative. He expressed optimism following a meeting with All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Kalyan Chaubey and secretary general Shaji Prabhakaran in Australia to finalize the academy's setup.
Wenger acknowledged football's global popularity and India's potential with its massive population. However, he stressed the need for a well-coordinated approach to identify talent and develop it effectively. Cooperation between FIFA and AIFF, combined with a strong desire, is seen as the key to success.
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Drawing inspiration from Japan's football development model, Wenger highlighted the importance of creating academies and educational programs for young players. He mentioned that India can follow Japan's example in nurturing football talent.
Wenger emphasized that AIFF's role should extend beyond talent identification to include education and coaching quality. The collaboration between AIFF and FIFA should focus on identifying talent, grouping the best with the best, and promoting grassroots football across the country.
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Arsene Wenger plans to visit India in October to oversee the progress of the academy's establishment. Despite cricket's dominance in India, he believes there is significant potential for other sports like football, offering opportunities to young athletes beyond cricket. Football's inclusive nature, where factors like weight or size don't limit participation, makes it an appealing choice for India's youth.
(With Inputs From PTI)